Controversial rape pic wins Thai prize

Udomdej's film takes top kudos at Supannahongsa

BANGKOK — The true story of a rape victim, “Kheon Bab Thi Prom Pi Ram” (Macabre Case of Prom Pi Ram), took home six awards including best pic at the 13th Supannahongsa Film Awards, the Thai version of Hollywood’s Academy Awards, on Jan. 9

Helmer Manop Udomdej’s film, which depicts a woman being raped by 30 men in her Pitsanulok village about 30 years ago, also won best actress.

“Rak Noi Nid Mahasarn” (Last Life in the Universe) won for art direction and for Christopher Doyle’s cinematography.

Newcomer Asanee Suwan was named best actor for “Beautiful Boxer,” based on a true story about a local transvestite boxer.

“Fan Chan” (My Girl), directed by six young helmers, won prizes for director and supporting actor. The comedy, a story about children and their innocent relationship, was co-directed by Nithiwat Tharathorn, Vitcha Gojiew, Tsongyos Sukmak-anand, Komkrit Triwimol, Witthaya Thongyooyong and Anusorn Trisirikasem. It was the No. 1 Thai film at the B.O., earning $3.52 million.

A lifetime achievement award went to Chalong Pakdeevijit (aka Philip Chalong), who has directed 69 films in his 53 years in the industry including 1971’s “H Bomb” and “In Gold We Trust” (1991).